The world can end AIDS – if everyone’s rights are protected. With human rights at the centre, with communities in the lead, the world can end AIDS as a public health threat by 2030. 

On 1 December 2024, WHO joins partners and communities to commemorate World AIDS Day 2024 under the theme “Take the rights path: My health, my right!”. In this year’s campaign, WHO is calling on global leaders and citizens to champion the right to health by addressing the inequalities that hinder progress in ending AIDS. This approach is significant as the substantial progress that has been made in the HIV response is directly linked to progress in protecting human rights. In turn, the progress made through the HIV response has encouraged broader progress in realising the right to health and strengthening health systems. 

Further, the campaign continues the imagery of a path to be chosen, signposted as the rights path. This message will be at the core of activities that will build up across November and December, and will continue to echo beyond. It promotes a focus on reaching and engaging with communities that have been excluded and marginalised, and on fostering inclusion, acceptance, respect and care. There is an urgent need to oppose and remove laws and practices that punish, discriminate against or stigmatize people, which obstructs access to HIV prevention, testing, treatment and care. Laws, policies and practices that hinder the work of people who are providing vital HIV services for affected communities need to be opposed as well. The upholding of everyone’s human rights is an essential underpinning of an effective HIV response. 

In line with this, the Muslim Aids Programme (MAP) is persistent in its efforts towards making a positive difference in communities by working within the Guidelines of the NSP 2023-2028. NSP highlights the bold objectives that aim to reduce barriers to accessing health and social services. MAP also works with the guidelines of the National Development Plan and the goals of the UNAIDS 90:90:90 strategy for HIV/AIDS and TB, in the reduction of new infections through prevention, awareness and education and to increase HIV status identification, accessible ARV implementation and treatment adherence to ensure that people remain healthy and productive for as long as possible. As a faith-based organisation, MAP aims to positively contribute in the field against HIV/AIDS/TB through developing faith-based leadership, communication and co-ordination in partnerships and communities. With these effective partnerships, MAP implements community development, mentoring and capacity building within families and communities, and promotes leadership and shared accountability for a sustainable response to HIV.